Sheet Metal Technician

Compensation: $30–$50/hr Level: 3+ years (mid-level to senior) Role Summary We are seeking an experienced Aerospace Sheet Metal Fabrication Technician to support the fabrication of precision, tight-tolerance flight hardware in a high-mix, low-volume development environment. This role is responsible for setting up, operating, maintaining, and improving sheet metal fabrication processes used to produce complex aerospace components. Technicians in this role are expected to work independently, take ownership of equipment and builds, and collaborate directly with engineering to improve manufacturability, tooling, and fabrication methods. This is a hands-on prototype fabrication role , not a production-line operator position. Core Responsibilities Set up, operate, and maintain sheet metal fabrication equipment including: Laser cutting systems CNC press brakes Rollers English wheels Other forming tools and fixtures Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and flat patterns to produce accurate components Perform precision measurement and inspection using calipers, micrometers, gauges, and layout tools Fabricate tight-tolerance aerospace sheet metal components for flight hardware Perform secondary operations including drilling, riveting, fastening, and assembly of metallic structures Work directly with engineering to refine fabrication methods and improve manufacturability Troubleshoot equipment and support basic maintenance to ensure uptime Support process improvements, tooling feedback, and work instruction updates Assist in training junior technicians when needed Required Qualifications 3+ years of experience in sheet metal fabrication, machining, or precision manufacturing Experience operating and maintaining CNC sheet metal equipment in a production or aerospace environment Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and work instructions Experience working independently from setup through inspection Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail Comfortable working in a fast-paced, changing prototype environment Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in physically demanding shop conditions Preferred Skills & Experience Aerospace, defense, or flight hardware fabrication experience CAD/CAM or flat pattern software experience (NX, Teamcenter, TruTops Boost, IGEMS, or similar) Familiarity with MES systems and shop travelers Working knowledge of GD&T (ASME Y14.5) Experience improving fabrication processes or developing shop workflows Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience What This Role Requires Successful candidates are: Independent fabricators who can own work from start to finish Comfortable switching between CNC programming/operation and manual forming methods Experienced in low-volume, high-variation aerospace fabrication environments Able to interpret engineering intent without heavy supervision Focused on improving how hardware is built, not just repeating production work #J-18808-Ljbffr Apera